Love birds. We feed them now in the winter, and we saw a hawk waiting around for them to come. My daughter saw this and threw a walnut at it and to her surprise she hit it, didn't hurt it just to scare it away.

A smooth sea never made a skillful sailor; we learn greatly from the storms in our life and what we already know finally comes in useful. Aristotle remarked: "Education is an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity."

What you quoted about a "smooth sea never made a skillful sailor, " reminded me of a story in our Baha'i Writings about tests and difficulties. To pray and be disappointed that one doesn't get the affirmative answer one is hoping for is not trusting in God. Praying for relief but being submissive and patient during times of tests is the real essence of faith, for, just as in school, if we are not tested, how can we prove what we've learned? As 'Abdu'l-Baha told a young woman in the story, "Strong ships are not conquered by the sea, -- they ride the waves. Now, be a strong ship." How true.

jan1936

Jan 5, 2018

As always your quotes hit home. Thanks and lots of hug. Have a safe and great New Year

aussiesapphire

Jan 6, 2018

Hi jan1936, it is aways a pleasure seeking them - very educational and at time very funny. Hugs back to you.